Children and travel

Are you travelling with one or more children? Special rules apply, and these vary considerably depending on the airline. Always contact your airline before you fly.

Special fares for children

Different fares often apply to children, and children often fly for less. Many airlines divide the fare structure into three age categories: infants (2 and under); children (2 to 12) and adults (12 and up). Some airlines charge adult fares for children ages 2 and up.

Unaccompanied children

Children are not allowed to travel unaccompanied. They must have an adult with them (usually older than 16). If necessary, the airline can provide assistance, in which case the children will be accompanied by an airline employee (for a fee). They will be safely escorted at Schiphol, during their flight and at the airport of their destination (transfer). Not all airlines offer this service.

Children’s service on board

Many airlines offer packs with toys and games for children as well as children’s meals. You always need to request these meals in advance (provided your airline offers children’s meals).

Buggies and strollers

Usually you are allowed to take collapsible buggies to the gate, at which time they are loaded into the cargo hold. Generally speaking, buggies and strollers that are not collapsible must be handed in at the check-in desk.

On your lap or in a separate seat?

Depending on the airline you will need to reserve a seat for your small child. Certain regulations apply to using a baby chair (on the separate seat), for example with respect to the dimensions and feasibility of securing the baby chair to the airplane seat.

Travelling with a sick child

Is your child sick and is he or she contagious, for example with the measles, mumps, chicken pox or whooping cough? If so, your child is not allowed to travel unless you have a medical statement indicating that it is safe to fly.